Cage Training

Question
We have just introduced a cage to our 3yr collie cross.  we followed instructions and gradually got him used to being inside.  He is fine, providing we are in the house.  As soon as we leave, he barks.  We have set up a video camera and he jumps about in the cage until it moves across the floor, whilst barking and whining.  As we have had problems with leaving him the run of house, due to him chewing and urinating places, we really want to persevere with the cage.

Answer
How long are you leaving him?  I am a big believer in crates, but hate to see any dog left over 4-5 hours. If you can't make it back to give it a mid day break, see if a neighbor or professional dog walker can. Doggy day care is a great idea too.At 3 years old, some dogs are slow to accept a crate.  Have you tried filling a Kong with peanut butter and freezing it?  It will keep some dogs too busy to resist the crate.

Some dogs may better adjust to a tie down.  A short length of chain restricts the dog almost as much as a crate, but may not upset the dog as much.